Taking care of your eyes and getting regular examinations can prevent many leading causes of eye diseases and vision loss. Here’s a few things you can do to protect your eyes at any age:
Protect Your Eyes From The Sun– Like your skin, your eyes never forget UV exposure. Studies show that exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, leading causes of vision loss among older adults. Select sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays. Don’t be deceived by colour or cost. The ability to block UV light is not dependent on the darkness of the lens or the price tag.
Prevent Eye Injuries – Approximately 1 million eye-related injuries occur in the U.S. each year. Ninety percent of these injures could have been prevented. Keep a pair of protective glasses, with ‘ANSI Z87.1’ marked on the lens or frame, around the house. Wear them when playing sports, mowing the lawn, working on your car, or when working with chemicals.
Take a multivitamin– A National Eye Institute study showed that supplements with antioxidant vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and the minerals copper and zinc slowed the progression of advanced macular degeneration in high-risk patients.
Elevate Your Heart rate – Some studies have indicated that aerobic exercise can decrease the pressure inside the eyes, helping reduce the risk for glaucoma. Aim for three 30-minute workouts a week—walking, jogging, using a cardio machine, or taking a class at the gym.
Eat dark, leafy greens. Spinach, kale, collard greens, and other deep-coloured vegetables contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids that have been associated with reducing the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. Try to eat two servings a day.
Crunch on carrots, too. Carrots, as well as pumpkin and butternut squash, contain beta-carotene, a carotenoid that may help keep eyes healthy.